Animal-Based Medicine Practices in Jhargram, India

Ethnozoological Significance of Animal-Based Medicines

India, with its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, showcases a profound relationship between indigenous communities and their utilization of animal-based medicines. The Jhargram district in West Bengal, nestled in the Chota Nagpur Plateau, is home to various ethnic communities that have long relied on traditional medicine systems for their healthcare needs. This practice is not merely a relic of the past; it serves as a primary healthcare resource for many, particularly in rural areas where access to modern medical facilities is limited (Acharya et al., 2025). The significance of animal-based medicines extends beyond mere treatment; it embodies a holistic view of health and well-being, integrating cultural beliefs and ecological knowledge.

Animal products have been documented for their medicinal properties across various cultures, contributing to a unique pharmacopeia that blends scientific understanding with traditional lore. In Jhargram, traditional healers utilize animal parts for treating ailments, demonstrating a deep knowledge of local biodiversity and its applications in medicine. The ethnozoological practices observed in Jhargram reflect a dynamic system of knowledge that is being eroded due to urbanization and cultural shifts, necessitating urgent documentation and preservation efforts (Acharya et al., 2025).

Documented Species and Their Medicinal Uses

In the Jhargram district, a study has documented the use of 57 animal species belonging to 47 families, showcasing their roles in traditional medicine (Acharya et al., 2025). Table 1 highlights some of the key species, their medicinal uses, and the ailments they address:

This table exemplifies the diversity of animal species utilized for medicinal purposes. Birds accounted for 33% of the documented species, emphasizing the reliance on avian resources in local healthcare systems. The fidelity level (FL) and use value (UV) also indicate the significance of specific species in treating common ailments, such as respiratory issues and wounds.

Methodologies for Ethnozoological Data Collection

The methodology employed for data collection involved face-to-face interviews with 55 informants, selected based on their recognized expertise in traditional medicine. A semi-structured questionnaire was utilized to gather qualitative and quantitative data on the use of animal species in traditional medicine. This approach not only enhanced the reliability of the information collected but also provided a comprehensive view of the local practices and beliefs surrounding animal-based therapies.

The data were analyzed using various ethnobiological indices, including the informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), and use value (UV). The ICF, for instance, assesses the level of agreement among informants regarding the medicinal use of specific species. A higher ICF indicates a strong consensus, reflecting the importance of that species in traditional healing practices (Acharya et al., 2025).

Key Findings on Indigenous Knowledge and Practices

The findings from the study reveal the profound knowledge indigenous communities possess regarding animal-based medicines. The majority of informants (65.5%) had basic literacy, highlighting the role of education in the preservation of traditional knowledge. The significance of specific species, such as Apis cerana, is underscored by its high fidelity level (94.54%), indicating its critical role in addressing respiratory ailments.

Moreover, the study found that infectious diseases garnered the highest informant consensus factor (ICF = 1.00), suggesting a strong communal reliance on animal-based treatments for these ailments. The preparation methods varied, with common practices including boiling, roasting, and topical application, demonstrating the adaptability of traditional medicine to local resources and needs (Acharya et al., 2025).

Implications for Biodiversity Conservation and Healthcare

The documentation of animal-based medicinal practices in Jhargram not only contributes to the understanding of local healthcare systems but also underscores the need for biodiversity conservation. As traditional knowledge faces the threat of extinction due to urbanization, there is an urgent call to protect these practices. This study highlights the importance of integrating traditional knowledge into contemporary healthcare frameworks, fostering a symbiotic relationship between biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery.

The findings also suggest that the sustainable use of animal resources can play a significant role in local healthcare systems while supporting conservation efforts. By recognizing the value of indigenous knowledge and practices, there is potential for developing novel biomedical applications that could benefit modern healthcare systems (Acharya et al., 2025).

FAQ

What is ethnozoology?

Ethnozoology is the study of the relationship between humans and animals in various cultures, particularly focusing on how animal species are utilized in traditional medicine and other practices.

Why is animal-based medicine significant in Jhargram?

Animal-based medicine is significant in Jhargram because it forms an integral part of the healthcare practices of indigenous communities, providing essential treatments for various ailments, especially in areas with limited access to modern healthcare facilities.

How was the data on animal-based medicine collected in the study?

Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with knowledgeable informants using a semi-structured questionnaire, allowing for both qualitative and quantitative analysis of traditional practices.

What are the implications of this study for biodiversity conservation?

The study highlights the need to preserve traditional knowledge and the sustainable use of animal resources, which can contribute to both healthcare and biodiversity conservation efforts.

References

1. Acharya, R., Das, S. K., & Bhowal, A. (2025). Healing from the wild: an ethnozoological exploration of animal-based medicine in Jhargram, West Bengal, India. Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13002-025-00760-w

2. Ilie, G., & Jaeggi, A. V. (2025). The modular mind and psychiatry: toward clinical integration with a focus on self-disorders. Frontiers in Psychology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1570049

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